Travelling to Norway is a tale of two halves. Depending on the season, you’ll either be drenched in Scandinavian sun or buried under freshly fallen snow. And with both offering a plethora of outdoor activities, it’s vital you know what’s what when starting to pack. Will you be kayaking across lakes warmed by the sun, or chasing the Northern lights through winter’s deep dark nights? Bikini clad or lost beneath five layers? Whichever it may be, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover what to pack for Norway no matter the weather.
Packing for Summer in Norway
Packing for a summer fling with Norway isn’t as straightforward as you may think. While the long days of June, July and August are the prime time for hiking, camping and cycling in the stable 20 to 30°C weather of the east and south, the climate along the coast and in the north can vary a whole lot more. Experiencing four seasons in one day is a phrase that rings true for Norwegian summers, so make sure your bag is fit to burst with these handy items.
Clothing
- Lightweight t-shirts, long sleeve tops and fleeces: ‘layers’ is going to be your new favourite word in Norway. Hiking along fjords could see you start with two layers, go down to one and then up to three all within a day. Being overly prepared is better than being cold, so make sure you’ve got plenty of options.
- Hiking shorts and trousers: comfort is key when doing outdoor activities, and with both shorts and trousers to hand you’ll be ready for whatever temperature is thrown at you.
- Lightweight raincoat: rain can come sloshing down unexpectedly with full force wherever you are, so bringing a lightweight raincoat ensures you can squeeze it into your bag on days out.
- Hiking shoes: if you’re planning on some lengthy hikes, a pair of sturdy boots will set you in good stead.
- Trainers: these are great for the less strenuous sightseeing activities, or for when your hiking boots are drying out from a rainy spell.
- Casual clothes: everyday jeans, tops and shorts are another must when deciding what to pack for Norway. Going for dinner or exploring cities and museums needs nothing more than everyday clothing.
- Swimming costume/shorts: summer in Norway wouldn’t be complete without a refreshing dip in one of its many enticing lakes, so make sure you’re all set for a swim.
Other Items
- Sleeping mask: while the Midnight Sun of May, June and early July is a spectacular natural phenomenon, it’s also okay to admit it can be a little annoying when trying to get some shut eye. A sleeping mask will prove invaluable when trying to block out the relentless sunlight.
- Suncream: the sun can be deceptively harsh even during lower temperatures, so slathering yourself in a high SPF will keep you protected from the UV.
- Quick drying towel: efficiently small and speedy at drying, a microfibre towel is a handy addition to anyone’s bag.
- Reusable water bottle: good for both the environment and your wallet, filling a reusable water bottle with tap water is an ideal way to stay hydrated.
- Sunglasses: to save your holiday snaps from being ruined by squinty eyed smiles.
Packing for Winter in Norway
The change of seasons in Norway brings with it a change in weather, with temperatures plunging to a teeth chattering -6.8°C and sparkling snow blanketing the landscapes. Skiing, tobogganing, dog sledding, Christmas markets and whale watching are brought to life as the temperature drops, and it’s no surprise that your packing list is going to look a little different. But fear not, as we’ve compiled a nifty list of what to pack for Norway during the magical winter months.
Clothing
- Thermals: if you’re out looking for the Northern Lights, temperatures can dip as low as -25°C, so wearing a thermal base layer is an absolute must to keep you toasty in the bone chilling air.
- Wooly jumper: a wooly middle layer slipped on over the thermals will keep you nice and cosy. Traditional Norwegian wool jumpers can be found in many shops in Norway, and double up as an authentic souvenir.
- Thick winter jacket: while many companies supply thermal arctic suits for day excursions such as snowmobiling, if you’re out exploring on your own it’s a no brainer to pack a weather resistant jacket. Even if temperatures are on the ‘warmer’ side (around 0°C), it’s always worth having a jacket tucked away just in case.
- Socks: there’s nothing worse than feeling like your feet have turned into two solid blocks of ice. Packing a good, thick pair of socks is vital – bringing more than you think you’ll need is also a good way to avoid the curse of damp feet.
- Hat: we’ve all heard that you lose the most heat from your head, so pop on a thick hat and even a balaclava to keep that much needed heat in.
- Gloves and hand warmers: another no brainer, but consider purchasing some screen-touch gloves so you can take pictures without your fingers turning to icicles.
- Ski or snow trousers: these are a great way to keep your legs warm and dry if you’re not wearing a thermal suit.
Other Items
- Portable charger: the cold loves to drain the charge on phones, so bringing a portable charger means you won’t be faced with the dreaded 1% panic.
- Travel thermos: you’ll thank yourself for packing one of these – nothing warms you up like a steaming tea or coffee.
- Moisturiser and lip balm: the cold weather and biting winds are the enemy of soft skin, so applying these every day will save you from dry skin and cracked lips.
- Anti-slip traction gear: it’s one you might not have thought of, but even throughout cities such as Tromso, you’ll come across people wearing some form of snow spikes or crampons on their shoes to stop them skidding all over the place. Make sure they’re easy to take off, as many shops have signs forbidding them indoors.
